Have The Raiders Found Their Head Coach?

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Raiders Crush, The Giants

After Josh McDaniels was fired on October 31st, Raiders Owner Mark Davis promoted linebackers coach Antonio Pierce as interim head coach. The Raiders had to put their focus on the struggling New York Giants coming to town.

The Raiders dominated the Giants with a 30-6 victory. It was easily the most impressive performance of the season for the Raiders. The defense humiliated the Giants’ offense, forcing 2 interceptions each by cornerbacks Amik Robertson and Nate Hobbs. Maxx Crosby led the charge on the defensive line, contributing to 3 out of the 8 sacks in total.

Rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell had a decent outing, throwing 16/25 for 209 yards. The Raiders focused on a primary run offense with Josh Jacobs. Jacobs carried the ball 26 times and was the primary scorer for the Raiders offense, scoring two touchdowns.

Post-Game Locker Room Celebration

The Raiders players in the locker room looked like a new team. They looked as happy as ever. Crosby provided the team with cigars as they all danced to music. Even Mark Davis decided to celebrate alongside the players. Antonio Piece and O’Connell were handed game balls.

History of Rotating Coaches

Since 1995, the Raiders have had a rotating door at the head coaching position. They have had a total of 16 different head coaches in 28 years. Jon Gruden is the longest-tenured head coach since 1995, with three years (1998-2001). Gruden is also responsible for the record with the highest winning percentage amongst the 16 head coaches, .594 (38 wins and 26 losses).

Who Is Antonio Pierce (Player and Coach)

Antonio Pierce is a former NFL linebacker who played for the Washington Redskins and New York Giants. He was selected to the NFL Pro Bowl in 2006 after having 138 tackles, an interception, and a sack. He won the Superbowl with the Giants the following year, defeating the undefeated New England Patriots.

Although Pierce had never played for The Raiders, he says he was always meant to be a Raider. Pierce grew up in Long Beach, California, went to Paramount High School, and rooted for the Raiders.

Pierce has numerous coaching stints, his first being in 2014 as the head coach of Long Beach Poly High School. After that, he spent the next few years at Arizona State as a linebackers coach, defensive coordinator, and associate head coach.